If you’re planning a motorhome adventure across Europe this spring or summer, be aware of new UK regulations that could affect your return journey. As of April 12th, 2025, the UK government has extended its ban on personal imports of meat and dairy products from all EU countries into Great Britain.
What’s Prohibited?
Travelers entering Great Britain are now prohibited from bringing in meat from cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, as well as dairy products like cheese, butter, and yogurt. This includes items such as sandwiches, cured meats, raw meat, and milk, regardless of packaging or purchase location, including duty-free shops.
What’s Allowed?
Certain items are still permitted under specific conditions:
- Up to 2kg per person of powdered infant milk, infant food, or special food needed for medical reasons, provided it doesn’t require refrigeration and is in unopened, branded packaging.
- Fish and fish products, including fresh fish (must be gutted), processed fish (dried, cooked, cured, or smoked), lobsters, and prawns, up to 20kg per person.
- Other animal products like eggs and honey.
- Plant-based and processed foods such as bread (excluding sandwiches with meat or dairy fillings), cakes without fresh cream, biscuits, chocolate, and pasta (not mixed or filled with meat).
Why the Ban?
The ban aims to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), a highly contagious viral disease affecting livestock. Recent outbreaks in several EU countries have prompted the UK government to take precautionary measures to protect British agriculture and food security.
Compliance and Penalties
Travelers found with prohibited items must surrender them at the border or face seizure and destruction of the goods. In serious cases, individuals may incur fines up to £5,000 in England.
Planning Ahead
Before returning to the UK, motorhome travelers should:
- Consume or dispose of any prohibited meat and dairy products before arrival.
- Check the latest government guidelines to ensure compliance with import regulations.
- Be prepared to declare any food items at the border and understand the rules regarding what is permitted.
For detailed information on what you can and cannot bring into the UK, visit the official government website: GOV.UK
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